National Framework Agreement for Autism And ADHD Assessment Services
Framework Description
Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust runs this national framework agreement for autism and ADHD assessment services under the Health Care Services (Provider Selection Regime) Regulations 2023 and the related Welsh regulations. It is open to relevant authorities across England and Wales, including NHS trusts, integrated care boards and local authorities. The framework is live and runs to 1 June 2029, with no extension option.
Context & Use Case
Demand for neurodevelopmental assessment far outstrips NHS capacity, and waiting lists for autism and ADHD diagnosis are long in many areas. Commissioners use the framework to buy extra assessment capacity from qualified providers, either to clear backlogs or to run ongoing pathways. Because it is set up under the Provider Selection Regime, buyers can award healthcare services through it compliantly.
Scope of Services
Autism assessment and diagnosis ADHD assessment and diagnosis Diagnostic reporting Specialist clinical assessment Data reporting for commissioners Patient pathway coordination
Lots
See framework link
Who Can Apply
Suits specialist assessment providers, independent diagnostic services and NHS providers with qualified multidisciplinary teams. The framework is live and applications are closed, so those not already appointed should prepare for the re-tender, likely around 1 June 2029.
Buyer Benefits
Commissioners need assessment capacity quickly and in a way that stands up to scrutiny under the Provider Selection Regime. A national framework covering England and Wales saves them running their own process. Buyers value qualified clinicians, NICE-aligned assessment protocols, clear reports that families and schools can use, and reliable turnaround times.
Next Steps
If you are on the framework, approach ICBs and trusts with long waiting lists and show your available capacity. If you are not, follow the Find a Tender procurement record (ocds-h6vhtk-065f16) for the re-tender, and build evidence on clinician qualifications, assessment protocols, quality audits and waiting time performance before 1 June 2029.
How Athena Can Help
Neurodevelopmental assessment is one of the most competitive areas in NHS commissioning. Athena's bid strategy and writing helps appointed providers win call-offs, with win themes built around capacity, diagnostic quality and patient experience.
For providers outside the framework, our route-to-market planning identifies other ICB and trust opportunities, and our Provider Selection Regime expertise helps you meet the regime's evaluation criteria when the next competition opens. We can also check your clinical governance and safeguarding evidence before any submission.
